wool art

Whispering of the Peruvian past, soft turquoise, gray and black reverberate like memories. Wilmer Vilchez works in precious alpaca wool to create a beautiful shawl on the traditional handloom.

Made entirely by hand, this beautiful contemporary bag showcases the ancestral weaving traditions preserved by the women artisans of the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco. The compact purse exemplifies the incredible time and dedication it takes to produce a handmade work of art. In the highlands they call home, before they can begin to weave the fabric for the bag, the women must first raise and shear the alpacas and llamas to obtain the wool, then dye and spin the fleece before it is ready to be woven into fabric on a traditional backstrap loom. From start to finish, the time taken to produce each bag spans the seasons. The fully-lined bag closes with a zipper and features an interior zipper pocket.

Peruvian artisan Kathiana Quispe designs another charming creation inspired by the ancient Andean culture. This time, she works with suede in an elegant sepia tone to craft a handy leather-accented sling with three zippered compartments and an adjustable strap. The accessory also comes with an alpaca blend textile at the front, symbolizing the artisan's rich heritage. 

Keep the chill away with this unisex knit scarf by artist Edison Canal in Cusco, Peru. Crafted from a cozy blend of alpaca, acrylic, and wool, it is lightweight, breathable, durable and comfortable, perfect for any outdoor adventures.

A burst of color and craftsmanship, this red sling bag by Peruvian artisan Milagros Campos is a lively showcase of Ayacucho embroidery. Handwoven from soft alpaca yarns, its floral patterns bloom across the fabric, framed by a playful tassel and pom pom. The zippered closure keeps essentials secure while the adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit. Practical and full of character, this bag brings a touch of artistry to every outing.